'Almost Famous' helmer boards adaptation of Mee memoir

The studio just finalized Crowe’s deal and has dated the pic for Dec. 23, 2011.

Crowe, who was also flirting with a Marvin Gaye biopic, is polishing the “Zoo” script penned by Aline Brosh McKenna. As soon as he finishes his draft, Fox will go out to talent.

Based on Benjamin Mee’s memoir, story centers on a widowed father who buys a dilapidated zoo in hopes of making a fresh start. He and his children, along with a small but loyal staff, work to get the zoo reopened. Julie Yorn is producing.